Is is powered in some way? I notice a pin holding something on the smaller part. Is that part supposed to come out to use it? Does something in the small side do something to something else in the larger side? Does it sit on the end with the pin when in use, or on its side as it is shown? I have no clue what this could be!

Barbara

First to Andy's question: No

I found this item on the internet, so I'll let you know what I know.

Is it powered? Yes, I guess you could say so. It is a mecanical device that can function on its own.Does the pin come out to use it? I believe it would have to.

Some of your other questions are a bit too technical
There are different sizes and shapes of this device. I'm pretty sure that it needs to sit a certain way to function correctly and get the desired results.